Children’s Specialized Hospital is proud to announce C. Vivian Stringer, head coach of the Rutgers’s University women’s basketball team, as the honorary chairperson for the sixth annual 2012 Walk n’ Roll, presented by Kohl’s department stores, scheduled for May 19 in Johnson Park in Piscataway.

Coach Stringer has a special connection to Children’s Specialized Hospital and the families it serves because she has two children who have been affected by serious health complications. At 14 months old, her daughter suffered devastating brain damage from a case of viral meningitis. Janine is now 30, uses a wheelchair and must have 24/7 care while living at home. Coach Stringer’s son suffered a serious traumatic brain injury after a car accident. Her son has now fully recovered from his injuries after several months of intensive rehabilitation.

“I am really honored to help Children’s Specialized Hospital. Being a mother of a child with special needs and having gone through a very tough recovery with my son, I know what it’s like for families with the same situations,” said Stringer. “I am proud to be part of this event to help the hospital, which is known as one of the best pediatric rehabilitation hospitals in the country.”

As one of the greatest coaches in college women’s basketball history, Coach Stringer has compiled one of the best win-loss records, which currently has her ranked the fourth-highest victory-getter in the women’s coaching profession. She also has been awarded National Coach of the Year three times and is the only women’s coach in the country that has guided three different schools to the NCAA Final Four appearances. Coach Stringer is the first honorary chairperson for the Walk n’ Roll.

This event has been welcoming thousands of supporters each year to enjoy a 1, 2.5 or 5 mile walk or roll around Johnson Park. Immediately following the walk supporters will enjoy the free Kohl's KidsAbilities Carnival where everyone can enjoy live music, games and prizes, food, and learn about special needs all for free.

Last year’s Walk ‘n Roll drew in over 1,500 community members that were able to raise over $125,000. This year Children’s Specialized Hospital is expecting over 2,000 and hoping to raise $150,000 to support outpatient center expansion.